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Ballco, PetjonAuthorSancho-Knapik, DomingoAuthorDe Magistris, TizianaAuthor

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July 1, 2025
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Assessing Consumer Preferences for Forest Bathing: A New Challenge to Promote Forest Recreation Services in a Rural Region in Spain

Publicated to:Ssrn Working Paper Series. 5311727- - 2025-06-19 (), DOI: 10.2139/ssrn.5311727

Authors: Ballco, P., Sancho-Knapik, D., & de Magistris, T.

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Abstract

This study evaluates consumer preferences for forest bathing and seeks to promote alternative forest-based recreation services in rural areas (Orihuela del Tremedal, Pinares de Rodeno), both located in rural Spain. Respondents were presented with a range of hypothetical forest bathing scenarios that varied by price, the presence or absence of a guide, and the option to participate individually or in a group of 5-10 people. An opt-out alternative was also included to capture preferences for none of the presented options. Using a random parameter logit model, specified in willingness to pay (WTP) space, the results indicate a significant higher WTP for forest bathing in Orihuela del Tremedal over Pinares de Rodeno. Participants also expressed a greater WTP towards guided sessions and engaging in the activity alone rather than in groups. These findings provide an accurate economic valuation of forest bathing as an ecosystem service, offering valuable insights for policymakers and local authorities. The results can support informed decision-making regarding the sustainable management and promotion of natural resources in rural areas, while simultaneously enhancing local economic development.

Keywords

Comportamiento del consumidorDesarrollo ruralDisposición a pagarPago por servicios ecosistémicosServicios de los ecosistemasUso multiple del bosque

Quality index

Impact and social visibility

From the perspective of influence or social adoption, and based on metrics associated with mentions and interactions provided by agencies specializing in calculating the so-called "Alternative or Social Metrics," we can highlight as of 2025-07-19:

With a more dissemination-oriented intent and targeting more general audiences, we can observe other more global scores such as:

    Leadership analysis of institutional authors

    There is a significant leadership presence as some of the institution’s authors appear as the first or last signer, detailed as follows: First Author (Ballco, Petjon) and Last Author (De Magistris, Tiziana).